Over the years, several times I’ve opted for Upscale’s cryo option at $8 a tube. I’ve also opted NOT to cryo for several sets (many of the same tubes). I’ve not noticed any difference with the cryos, other than the cool sticker on the boxes. I no longer order cryo. Their plain “Platinum” grade has always been fantastic, and easily sufficient for my needs. I’ve also tried ARC Select and Kevin’s Stash. All I need is Platinum.
Cryogenic Tubes - Time for a Change
Well it finally happened, one of my (four) EL34 tubes in my Willsenton R8 blew up last night. I knew it was coming. The bias meter had been telling me for about three weeks that this particular tube was loosing its mojo. Before you ask, yes I kept adjusting it's bias to match the others, it just wouldn't stay there for long.
Based on curiosity I just purchased (4) EL34 cryogenic tubes. They should be here by Friday.
I'm curious what folks (with actual direct experience, not your usual "everything new is snake oil" folks) think of cryogenic tubes in their systems?
The benefits listed are:
Expanded dynamic range
Smoother and more refined high frequencies
Increased Bass depth, definition, and articulation
Deeper and more focused soundstage
Lower dynamic noise floor
Reduced micro phonics
Smoother midrange
Lower operating temperature and extended tube life
Thanks for your feedback (pun intended) and Happy Listening .
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I've tried cryo'd tubes in the past, not so much for the cryo, rather for claims of hand picked. I've never had an issue, but can't say for sure I heard any difference in sound quality, don't worry about cryo vs no cryo.
While I don't run EL34 amp anymore, I question quality of new EL34, I have a number of 1990's era Svetlana, last good Svetlana. I've checked into those Decware tubes, other than cryo, nothing special. I'd try to find some NOS EL34 for best sound and durability. |
Just to smooth things over for the OP- Simply trying different BRANDS, and hearing the subtle(sometimes profound, sometimes no) differences is the more reasonable thing to do-especially among us audio weirdos in an internet forum. Just like many things in audio- thawed out tubes are nothing but another wallet draining, anecdotal exercise. IMHO. Carry on. |
@tomcy6 Prior to posting I ran a search on the discussion board. Most of the comments were quite old. I was hoping to garner more up to date info. That said, there were a few interesting questions/comments I ran across and I've forwarded these to the manufacturer (CryoTone). @curiousjim Your question (how can Cryo make a tube run cooler??) is a good one. I've included it with the one below. "Since tubes are composed of various materials, all of which expand and contract at different rates, one might think that cryo-treating tubes may cause micro cracks, fissures, or gaps where two or more materials meet, causing deleterious effects on the sound and possibly the longevity of the tubes. How does your process address these effects?" |
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